[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wzvn9WpSHY[/embedyt]
Benton citizens were not afraid to give their opinion about a possible utility rate hike in the near future. The City of Benton and the Public Utilities Commission held a public hearing on Monday, December 12th, 2022.
The objective was to get comments from citizens regarding the proposed increase in rates for water, wastewater, and electricity. Citizens who commented were direct about their concerns, including: fixed and low incomes as veterans, elderly, and single parents; already high bills; what do they get in return, what if they are moving and deciding which city to go to.
The Utility Commission cited a need for updating infrastructure, not having raised rates since 2016, and noted the new rates would be comparable to other same-size cities.
The City Council will read the ordinance again at the December 16th meeting and may vote at that time.
Watch the video above for the whole meeting. ☝️
PREVIOUSLY – DEC 11, 2022
The City of Benton will hold two Committee Meetings and a Public Hearing on Monday, December 12, 2022. Note that these meetings will be held at the Benton Event Center at 17322 Interstate 30, starting at 5:45 p.m. They will not be at City Hall this time.
Finance Committee
5:45 p.m.
Members: Chair – Jeff Morrow, Steve Brown, Jeff Hamm, Judd Hart, Steve Lee, Staff Liaison – Mandy Spicer
I. Establish a Quorum / Call to Order
II. Recognition of Attendees & Civility Statement
III. Scott Elliott permission to conduct business & be an A&P commissioner
IV. Police State Drug Control Budget Amendment
V. General Fund request to auction items
VI. Franchise bond principal payment
VII. Resolution to designate unobligated general funds
VIII. Purchase of land for future Fire Station
IX. Other Business
a. Monthly financials
Personnel, Health & Safety Meeting
Immediately following Finance Committee
Members: Chair – Bill Donnor, Steve Brown, Anne Spencer-Cole, Jeff Hamm, Jeff Morrow, Staff Liaison – Doriane Washington
I. Establish a Quorum / Call to Order
II. Recognition of Attendees & Civility Statement
III. Elected Official pay proposal
IV. Other Business
V. Adjournment
Utility Rates Public Hearing
6:45 p.m.
This will be regarding a proposed water, electric, and sewer rate increase. City officials and utility representatives will be there to provide information, hear questions, and concerns.
The agenda follows:
I. Welcome
II. Invocation Alderman Steve Lee
III. Pledge Alderman Jeff Morrow
IV. Introductions of Council & Commission
V. History
VI. 3 Minute limit for each public speaker (Alderman Knight as timekeeper)
VII. Closing Comments
See the full list of Saline County events at www.mysaline.com/events.